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Dodge unloads the 300-hp Caliber SRT-4

Our minds are still reeling at the thought of pushing 300-hp through the front wheels of an “econobox” to
comment too much on the new Dodge Caliber SRT-4. It’s quite frankly mind boggling, though not that surprising from
the speed freaks at Dodge’s SRT division.

According to Dodge, four numbers are important when
contemplating the significance of the Caliber SRT-4: 85, 125, 300 and 260. Eighty-five represents how much more
horsepower the Caliber SRT-4 has than the Neon SRT-4 it replaces, which means it produces 125 hp per liter of
displacement with a total output of 300 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Umm… wow. Just wow.

The
prodigious amount of power provided by the turbocharged 2.4L VVT “World Engine” is chopped up and served by
a six-speed manual and delivered via the front wheels, which has to be one scary fun sub-six-second ride to 60.

The company says in its release that the mission of SRT is to provide benchmark performance for the best price, so
we’ll be eager to find out later today what that means in terms of dollars and cents. Either way, the first
shocker of the 2006 Chicago Auto Show goes to Dodge.

• Tire-smoking 300 horsepower -- 85 more than the original Dodge SRT4
-- and 260 lb.-ft. of torque
• 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds
• All-around performance of a true “tuner car” right from the manufacturer
• Benchmark performance at the best price

Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing
Technology (SRT) group will take the SRT4 reputation to new heights with the introduction of the all-new,
300-horsepower 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4.

With true tuner performance right out of the box and a great price,
enthusiasts immediately took to the original SRT4, which was introduced in 2003 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. In the
2003-2005 model years, more than 25,000 Dodge SRT4s were sold.

“We couldn’t wait to
infuse Dodge Caliber with the SRT formula,” said Murphy. “The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4
delivers a strong dose of all-around performance while delivering at least 28 miles per gallon on the highway. Our new
SRT pocket rocket will be a hoot to drive.”

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4’s formula
begins with powertrain, essentially explained by four numbers: 85, 125, 300 and 260. The 85 is how much more
horsepower than the original Dodge SRT4 is available, which results in 125 horsepower per liter for a total of 300
horsepower. The final number is 260, as in 260 lb.-ft. of tire-smoking, push-back-in-your-seat torque.

Standout Powertrain

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is
capable of a 0-60 mph time in less than six seconds.

The all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber gets its motivation
from an all-new “World Engine” produced at the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) facility in
Dundee, Mich. The World Engine is a family of small fuel- and emissions-efficient aluminum four-cylinder gasoline
engines co-developed by DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler Group, Hyundai Motor Company and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

“The all-new 2.4-liter turbocharged World Engine delivers a level of power you’d expect from a
V-8,” said Pete Gladysz, Senior Manager – Powertrain, SRT. “With the engine in the all-new 2007
Dodge Caliber SRT4, we were able to take advantage of tried-and-true performance improvements, such as increased
cylinder-head flow and higher compression ratio, as well as newer technologies such as Variable Valve Timing
(VVT).”

To achieve its high-performance Dodge Caliber SRT4 configuration, the aluminum 2.4-liter
World Engine block is specially machined for increased water and oil flow. Unique cast pistons travel within iron
cylinder liners, and are cooled by oil squirters and affixed to forged connecting rods for high-revving reliability.

Tri-metal bearings are used for the connecting rods and crankshaft for high-performance durability. A
unique oil pump/balance shaft module keeps the reciprocating assembly well-lubricated and running smoothly. An
external cooler keeps oil temperatures within a safe range.

The aluminum cylinder head is equipped
with unique high-temperature exhaust valves. VVT uses computer mapping to open and close intake and exhaust valves at
optimal points for efficient combustion and flow. The camshaft and micro-alloy steel crankshaft, shared with the
non-turbocharged 2.4-liter World Engine, are fully capable of high-horsepower loads.

Free-flow induction
begins with an all-new air cleaner assembly that draws through an opening in a front crossmember for proximity to cool
air. The air is then compressed in a TD04 turbocharger specially configured for the engine’s inlet and outlet
packaging requirements, and sent through an intercooler to a 57mm throttle body.

Fuel is provided by a
high-flow pump feeding injectors developed specifically for the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4. An all-new engine
management system designed by Siemens -- the Global Powertrain Engine Controller -- keeps the powerplant running at
maximum efficiency and power.

On the exhaust side, spent gas exits through a free-flow system that
features two catalytic converters – one immediately downstream from the turbo, and another further along the
3-inch single-pipe exhaust system. Using two catalytic converters in this way provides significantly better
“light-off” for decreased emissions. As with the previous-generation Dodge SRT4, the exhaust is tuned
for maximum performance while meeting federal noise regulations.

Power is transferred through a dual-mass
flywheel to the six-speed manual transmission. The dual-mass flywheel consists of two flywheels sandwiching
internal springs that are specially tuned to reduce noise and vibration. The GF DMT-6 six-speed transmission, equipped
with a limited-slip differential for uniform side-to-side power transfer, is capable of handling up to 300 lb.-ft. of
torque.

Torque is sent to the Dodge Caliber SRT4’s wheels through equal-length halfshafts sourced
from Chrysler Group mid-size cars for their larger size and power-handling capability.

Functional, Performance-oriented Exterior Design

Because there is only
one chance to make a first impression, the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 makes the most of it with muscular exterior
styling.

“From the very first sketches of the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4, we wanted an
aggressive, SRT-signature look,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design. “For
example, because the intercooler is positioned so high behind the front grille, we moved the fascia slightly forward
and extended the walls of the grille. The result is a much more aggressive look than the standard Dodge
Caliber.”

An all-new front fascia below the signature Dodge crosshair grille incorporates functional
performance features including ducts that direct air to cool the brakes and a wide center inlet that provides air flow
to the radiator. Fog lamps are also set into the fascia, alongside brake ducts. The 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4’s
hood incorporates a functional scoop that brings cooling air into the engine compartment and a pair of extractors that
exhaust hot air.

“Exterior design that works as well as it looks is a requirement for all SRT
vehicles,” said Creed. “The hood design includes the functionality of bringing cool air in and
getting hot air out.”

The lowest portion of the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4’s fascia, which acts
as an air dam to direct air around the front of the vehicle, wraps around to visually integrate with the radiused wheel
wells and lower side-sill moldings.

The rear fascia continues the muscular, functional character of SRT
vehicles, with lower vertical strakes that direct underbody air flow out the back of the vehicle, contributing to more
stability at speed. A single, 3.5-inch exhaust tip exits from the right side of the fascia.

Aerodynamic efficiency is also aided by an integrated spoiler above the rear glass, which incorporates the Center
High-mounted Stop Light (CHMSL). This spoiler, which is nearly 60 percent larger than that on the standard Dodge
Caliber, is tuned for smoother air flow and downforce while maximizing the rear view.

Four exterior colors
will be available on the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4: Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno
Red.

Race-inspired Interior Appointments

In the
“business office” of the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4, a new interpretation of traditional SRT themes is
carried out.

“The 2007 Dodge Caliber interior is unique with sophisticated and contemporary
appointments,” said Creed. “When we enhanced it with SRT cues, we followed design themes that had been
successful with the previous Dodge SRT4, including the graphic design of the instruments, separate boost gauge, and
silver finish on the center stack and interior trim.

Unique SRT touches include sport seating with aggressive bolstering and
performance fabric inserts to hold occupants during spirited driving, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a
“carbon fiber” pattern on the upper portion. The seats, steering wheel and leather shift boot feature
contrasting stitching. Also unique to the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is an “alloy silver” finish on the
instrument panel and shift bezel, and bright aluminum pedal pads that feature rubber studs for enhanced grip.

The center-stack-mounted shifter includes a lift ring to engage reverse, unique to the Dodge Caliber SRT4, as well as
a leather-finished shift knob.

The instrument panel features three gauge “tunnels” outfitted
with performance-oriented instrumentation, including a tachometer, 200-mph speedometer and water temperature and fuel
gauges. A turbocharger boost gauge is located on the left side of the instrument panel.

For the
enjoyment of audiophiles, the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is equipped with a standard AM-FM radio with a multi-disc CD
changer control. An available SRT/Kicker high-performance audio system includes 13 speakers in seven locations, powered
by a 322-watt amplifier and 100-watt subwoofer.

Two communication options are available on the 2007
Dodge Caliber SRT4: UConnect™ Hands Free Communications System and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

The
UConnect system uses Bluetooth® technology to provide hands-free wireless communication between the
customer’s compatible cellular telephone and the vehicle’s outboard receiver. Bluetooth is a short-range
wireless networking technology that is used to connect two or more devices together.

SIRIUS provides 2007
Dodge Caliber SRT4 customers with more than 120 streams of the best music, entertainment and information, coast to
coast. SIRIUS channels include 100 percent commercial-free music, the most play-by-play sports, world-class news, as
well as talk, comedy, women’s, family and kids’ programming, traffic and weather.

The
interior of the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is offered in Dark/Light Slate Gray.

World-class Ride and Handling

Another hallmark of SRT’s balanced approach to
performance is ride and handling characteristics that make a smooth transition from street to track.

The
all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 rides on SRT-unique19-inch cast aluminum wheels with 225/45R19 W-rated Goodyear
tires. Wheel hubs and bearings on all four corners are adapted from Chrysler Group mid-size cars for
strength.

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is uniquely calibrated for
the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 to provide excellent directional stability in all driving modes. In addition,
stability is enhanced with a ride height one-half inch lower than the standard 2007 Dodge Caliber.

Rack-and-pinion power steering is tuned to produce easier low-speed maneuvering, without compromising performance at
speed. The overall steering ratio is 18.0:1.

Benchmark
Braking

Benchmark braking is another ingredient in SRT’s performance recipe.

Although it’s a compact car, the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 benefits from braking-system components designed for
much larger, heavier cars. For example, front brake calipers were sourced from a premium brake system developed
for the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger, while rear calipers were sourced from Chrysler Group mid-size
cars. However, all are painted in signature Dodge SRT red. Vented brake rotors for the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4
are 340 x 28mm in front and 302 x 10mm in the rear.

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was uniquely
calibrated for the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4’s performance to maintain directional stability without wheel
lockup.

2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 Safety and Security Features:

Following are safety and security features in the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4:

• Advanced Multi-stage Air Bags: Offers enhanced protection for a range of occupants and
is designed to identify the size of an occupant in the front passenger seat based primarily on weight

• Brake/Park Interlock: Prevents an
automatic transmission or transaxle from being shifted out of Park unless the brake pedal is applied

• Constant Force Retractors (CFR): A mechanical device in each front seat belt is designed
to mitigate the force of a seat belt according to the load or force exerted on it. CFRs are engineered to force-limit
the belt system and gradually release seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner during a severe impact

• Crumple Zones: An area of the vehicle that is designed to compress during an accident in
order to absorb energy from an impact, preventing transfer of that energy to occupants

• Energy-absorbing Steering Column: Steering column contains two hydroformed coaxial tubes
that move relative to each other, which allows the column to move forward and provide more energy absorption during an
impact

• Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): In the event of an impact,
this system makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and access occupants by automatically turning on interior
lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. The system also shuts off the flow of fuel to the engine

•
Knee Bolsters: The steering column, lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are reinforced to protect
unbelted occupants during frontal impacts. They both restrain and position the occupant properly and enable air bags to
work effectively

• Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH): This system helps
ease the installation of compatible aftermarket child seats

• Occupant
Classification System (OCS): The OCS measures the conditions for activation or deactivation of the front
passenger-side air bag based upon the weight of the occupant

• Octagonal Frame-rail
Tips: Octagonal tips are designed to collapse rearward in a controlled manner during a frontal or offset front
impact

• ParkSense Rear Back-up System: Assists with detecting stationary
objects when driving at low speeds in Reverse. This system consists of visible (lights when the driver looks at the
inside rearview mirror) and audible warnings

• Power-adjustable Pedals:
Allows brake, accelerator and clutch pedals to move toward or away from the driver. This helps the driver achieve a
safe and comfortable seating position for improved vehicle control

• Remote Keyless
Entry: The remote keyless entry locks and unlocks doors, and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped
with a vehicle-theft security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system

•
Seat-belt Pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to immediately
remove slack from seat belts, which reduces the forward movement of an occupant’s head and torso

• Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer: This utilizes an engine key that has an embedded
transponder with a pre-programmed security key code. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a
random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If the correct key is not used, the engine will
shut off after only a few seconds

• Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags: Available side-curtain air bags extend protection to
front- and rear-seat outboard occupants. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor in order to autonomously trigger
the air bag on the side where the side impact occurs

The all-new 2007 Dodge
Caliber SRT4 was designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated
and disciplined product-creation process that improves quality and speed-to-market while reducing costs and encouraging
practical innovation in new vehicles.

CDS emphasizes systems engineering, design and up-front planning to
avoid time-consuming and costly trial and error, or changes during the later phases of the product development
cycle. With CDS, all product and process planning is completed and fully integrated before production tooling
begins.

2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 development also encompasses actual conditions, both on the street and on
the race track.

To simulate real-world conditions, the 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 will have logged nearly 2
million customer-equivalent road miles by the time vehicles begin appearing in dealerships.

To
ensure its track-ready character, extensive durability testing of the Dodge Caliber SRT4 will take place at Firebird
Raceway in Phoenix; Texas Motorsports Ranch in Ft. Worth, Texas; and Nelson Ledges in Garrettsville, Ohio.

Process, Productivity Key to Manufacturing Excellence

The
all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4 is built at the Chrysler Group's Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant on the same assembly
line with the Dodge Caliber SE, SXT and R/T models.

Previously the home of the Dodge Neon, the plant
recently underwent a multimillion-dollar upgrade to prepare for Caliber production.
A new body shop and
other upgrades are part of a total program investment of $419 million that was announced in January 2005. The robotic
body shop can build the Dodge Caliber SRT4, Caliber and potentially three other vehicles with no negative impact on
production. Robots can make necessary tool changes automatically within cycle time, in about 45 seconds.
The 3.7
million-square-foot Belvidere Assembly Plant has approximately 1,700 employees represented by United Auto Worker's Union
Locals 1268 and 1761. The plant began production of the Plymouth Fury and Dodge Monaco in 1965.

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Anonymous

9 Years Ago

Sub-six-second 0-60 times in a small, four-door pseudo-wagon? What's so exciting? Subaru's been there, done that. The Forester XT is more reliable and has the standard AWD to make full use of the horsepower. Seems a no-brainer to me which one the better buy would be.

Anonymous

Anonymous

7 Years Ago

well...I brought my SRT4 Caliber home from the dealer today. I have had a few other turbo cars in the past, and the only one that compares performance wise was a Mitsubishi 3000 GT VR4. The Caliber is plenty fast, handles decently, and has enough interior room for freinds/family/pets etc. Now, as far as the acceleration goes...Holy torque steer. Its really too bad it isnt an automatic, because taking your hand off the wheel for even a second during a full power acceleratino can be a bit tricky. I personally despise the way it looks, but my wife seems to like it. Its shifts nice and tight, and I havent had any trouble thus far with it not wanting to find a gear. The ride is a bit nicer than a STi or an Evo 9, and the price tag is MUCH nicer. I drove two tanks of gas out of it the first two days I had it, adn I am averaging about 26-29...and that is driving like a racer...if I drive like a normal boring grown up, i might get over 30. Anyways, i like it...overal i would say 8.5 out of 10, all things considered.

Anonymous

9 Years Ago

All in all the change from the neon SRT4 is good, the only problem is if your going to have a 300 hp car....make it AWD not FWD. with this car your going to have a hard time wrestling with torque steer and making straight launches. Other than that its a good change and i look foward to test driving one soon.

Anonymous

Anonymous

9 Years Ago

Never mind it is all alluminum

"The Caliber SRT-4 is powered by the all-new aluminum 2.4-liter four-cylinder "World Engine," which was developed jointly by the Chrysler Group, Hyundai, and Mitsubishi. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and makes 260 pound-feet of torque. Dodge says the Caliber SRT-4 will deliver at least 28 miles per gallon on the highway."

Anonymous

Anonymous

9 Years Ago

Looks like DCX is the only American manufacturer making interesting cars. Where is Ford and GM? 300hp through the front tires. That'll be interesting. I'm sure they omited AWD in order to keep the price low. But what a handfull this must be. I hope they fited it with one serious LSD.

Anonymous

8 Years Ago

I've seen this thing up close and personal. Yah sure tell me I haven't like anyone else. Go ahead and tell me no one has seen them yet because they arent made. They are nice...pictures don't tell u anything...you have to see them before you knock them.

Anonymous

9 Years Ago

"17. I am scared, how many 20something kids are going to kill themselves and others in this thing. The cars are mostly overpowered now, with severely unskilled drivers-a dangerous mix. I still see souped up Neon's crashed on a regular basis. This borders on irresponsible-anyone who buys this should be forced to take driving lessons for it.On the other hand kudos to DCX for coming up with interesting vehicles, but there should be an age requirement and driving test required..."

You're kidding right, you don't really believe that someone who can vote, have kids and go to war is too young for a hopped up 4 banger do you? I have more fear of minivans that econosports.

I want mine in Solar Yellow please, and this time please include the sub woofer right from the start. I wonder if I can get 20s under the fenders.

btw I am a 40 something who has driven fast mopar 4 and 6 cyls for years. This reminds me more of an updated GLHS, boy those were the days.